Good morning, Pensacola.

Coast Guard Sector Mobile said an unmanned 12-foot Yellow Ocean Scrambler kayak washed ashore near Bayou Grand on NAS Pensacola and was recovered by a non-owner—at 10:56 a.m. today—.

Pensacola Police Sgt. Joseph Taschetta led the investigation into antisemitic vandalism at local worship sites — including the Chabad Jewish Center and other community spaces — and his work led to the arrest of three teens on felony hate crime charges while earning him the ADL Florida Investigative Award.

The University of West Florida ranked third among the state's public universities, earning 91 out of 100 points in the 2024-2025 performance-based funding model and achieving an 80.1% rate of bachelor's graduates employed or furthering education one year after graduation.

The university will name Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz Jr as interim president effective July 14—this comes as UWF faces leadership changes and community concerns.

Escambia and Santa Rosa County Sheriff's offices partner with ICE to arrest and deport undocumented immigrants—both agencies work through programs that train deputies to serve ICE warrants.

The partnerships are part of 629 local agreements nationwide, with Florida leading in the number of ICE collaborations.

Pensacola’s leadership shifted from an all white male group in 2001 to a diverse Power List today—Belle Bear heads the 2025 list and marks a new era in local leadership.

The change shows a steady advance over two decades that reflects broader community progress.

Military bases in Northwest Florida maintained their current security levels after US airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites early Sunday.

Officials at Eglin Air Force Base said no extra measures were taken—while Hurlburt Field stayed alert with its standard protocols and other bases have not yet commented.

Ma Madea’s Brisket and Lemonade is inside West Pensacola’s Falcon Food Mart — located at 1101 Gulf Beach Highway — and serves to-go soul food like 10-hour smoked brisket, turnip greens, chicken, and burgers from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.

Chef Christopher Moore—honoring his grandmother’s legacy—started the restaurant with most menu items priced at $10 or less to connect with the local community.

Local Pulse writer Karen Jolly explains how parents can support their teens by listening and setting clear boundaries—advice aimed at easing challenges from homework to heartbreaks.

She offers practical tips—like respecting feelings and choosing battles wisely—to help parents guide their children through each stage.

Ronald McDonald House Firecracker 5K

5:00 AM – 4:59 AM — Seville Quarter — Registration fees apply — Run for a good cause in historic downtown Pensacola to support local families.

Ninja Kidz Live

6-7:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Last-minute tickets available — Experience the excitement of Ninja Kidz Live with family-friendly fun in Pensacola.

July 4th 5K and Fireworks Celebration

7:30-11:00 a.m. — Pensacola Beach Boardwalk — $30-$40 — Enjoy a scenic 5K run followed by a lively post-race party at the Tiki Bar.

YK Niece Live Performance

9:00 PM - 2:30 AM — Chasers Liquor Store & Bar — No cover charge — Experience YK Niece performing the hottest song of the summer in Pensacola.

Coffee and Bird Walk at Tarkiln Bayou Preserve

7:00-9:45 a.m. — Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park — Small entrance fee — Enjoy coffee and explore nature while birdwatching on a scenic trail.

Vegan Brewfest 2025

2-8 p.m. — Perfect Plain Brewing Co. — Cost info not provided — Celebrate plant-based living with epic vegan food, live music, and craft brews.

Karlous Miller Comedy Show

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre Pensacola — Check website for price — Experience the laughter and entertainment of Karlous Miller live on stage.

Ben Loftin Concert

12-6 p.m. — McRee Sector of Gulf Islands Ntl Seashore — Free entry — Enjoy soulful coastal tunes from singer-songwriter Ben Loftin in a beautiful setting.

Fungi & Friends Mushroom Growing Class

5-7 p.m. — Odd Colony Brewing Company — Free entry — Engage in an interactive mushroom class while creating grow kits and exploring your fungi curiosity.

12Eleven Live at Bands on the Beach

7 p.m. - 1 a.m. — Pensacola Beach — Free entry — Experience a night of great music as the local band 12Eleven takes the stage on the beach.